My relationship with Mexico began years ago. I tell people often that I initially began to study Spanish because I was looking for culture and honestly, I did find a lot of that culture in Mexico. Being a total white girl, I always felt that Mexico and other Spanish-speaking countries were oozing with something that I lacked.
I have travelled to Mexico various times, but the most lasting impression was made when I lived in Guadalajara for 6 weeks. I travelled through various parts of Mexico before landing in Guadalajara and as I learned more and more about each different state, I realized how rich and colorful this culture is.
If I had to choose three things that I relate with Mexico, it would be very tough; there is so much, but here it goe....
1- I would have to say that I immediately think of the vibrant and caring people when I think of Mexico. There is a common saying that goes along with the Spanish language. "Mi casa es su casa." When I was living there, this became the truest statement. Many people helped me find my bus stop by (walking me there) in Tlaquepaque, my host mom fervently helped with me my homework (pulling out old newspapers to validate her point) and more. Mexico's hospitality, true kindness and smiles of their people is truly undeniable.
2- Mexico's culture speaks many different languages. Their culture is not single layered or one-dimensional. I think of La plaza de las tres culturas (the plaza of the three cultures). Here resides to remnants of the Aztecs, a Catholic church and modern-day Mexico. It has always fascinated me how Mexico has woven multiple cultures together and created their own form of a melting-pot. I love how Day of the Dead, for instance, incorporates the old indigenous practices as well as modern-day Catholic practices. I honestly do not know if I can think of another culture that has fused together so well. I mean, just look at their flag.....
3- Would it be too cliche to say that lastly I think about the food and drink? I mean, what would Mexico be without the amazing chilies, tequilas, guacamoles, mole and more? The restaurant experience is more than anything we would expect in the US. Mariachis singing, margaritas flowing....Oh, it's just amazing. When we went to a small mercado, there were about 50 chilies to choose from. A country that has that many chilies to choose from just must be flavorful!
I have not had time to travel to Guatemala or Belize yet! But, if there was just one image that came to my mind when thinking about Guatemala, it would be Rigoberta Menchu.
Mexico is complexly beautiful and unique. It's tumultuous past has laid groundwork for a country comprised of Aztec, Maya , Spanish and much more.....all who we call Mexicans.
